► Month five with the VW Golf R
► We compare Audi V6 economy with four-pot
► Interesting results, no downsizing blues though
How much more efficient is the R’s 2.0-litre turbo than the previous R32’s 3.2 V6? I don’t have the definitive answer, but I once ran a 3.2-litre Mk2 Audi TT, a pretty similar thing. The Audi (DSG) made 250bhp, achieved 30mpg on the combined cycle and returned 26.9mpg with me driving. The Golf makes 296bhp, claims 39.8mpg and averages 30mpg. Interesting how much closer the V6 got to the lab figures, but I prefer the lighter, punchier, more frugal four. No downsizing blues here.
**Logbook: Volkswagen Golf R
Price: £31,475
As tested: £35,640
Miles this month: 896
Total miles: 4659
Our mpg: 29.5
Official mpg: 39.8
Fuel this month: £163.97
Extra costs: £0